Anxiety Attack When I Go Out With My Boyfriend

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I've had this problem for a while now. We haven't been going out lately, but every time we do, I seem to get anxious and have an almost panic attack flair up when he even TALKS about going out to dinner or somewhere.....even when he tells me the plans I get nervous and start getting anxiety about it. I'm going out to dinner tonight...he just told me, and I can't breathe now....I'm getting really nervous and when I do, I don't eat...and every time we go out to dinner, I've taken food home because I'm too nervous and panicked to eat it...HELP!! ! =( I don't know what to do to calm myself down, and when I try, it only gets worse!! !! !! !

I don't know-- is there something else you can do that would be less stressful than going to dinner?

It may get easier the more you do it. I'm familiar with the anxiety before going out, especially when it's a sudden decision or I haven't been anywhere in a long while. Is there anything in particular about going out that causes the nervousness? If it's crowds, for example, it shouldn't be too difficult to pick less busy times and places so you don't end up in too much of a noisy atmosphere.

It seems like it should be his job to comfort you in these situations and make them easier for you, as well, if he's aware of your anxiety. At the very least you could probably ask to plan these things earlier, so you have more time to mentally prepare yourself.

Plan going out ahead of time & pick places that are small and quiet. (Possibly drink herbal tea or if you take meds, take them before you go out)

^^I second this. ^^ It does get easier the more you do it - I used to have an outright phobia about it, too - and still prefer to find places that are small, quiet, preferably dimly lit (I can't stand the idea that strangers are watching me), and go when they're less likely to be busy.

And very strong (two or more bags) Chamomile tea is a good natural relaxant. I've been told the effect is comparable to Xanex, but never having used the med, I can't say how accurate that is. The tea does help settle me considerably.